Cotter-key



(No Model.)

W. P. BROWN.

CUTTER KEY.

N0. 357,813. Patented Peb.'15,'188'7.

UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE.

WILLIAM P. BROWN, OF ZANESVILLE, OHIO.

COTTER-KEY.

Application tiled June 16,1886. Serial No. 205,310.

(No model.)

This invention relates to that class of split' keys or pins commonly known as cotter pins, which, when in use, are passed through shafts, axles, and rods for the purpose of holding removable parts thereon. As commonly constructed, these keys have their ends of similar form and seated against each other, so that it is frequently difficult to spread or open the end of the key to prevent its withdrawal.

My invention is designed to overcome this difficulty; and it consists in beveling or otherwise forming the two ends so that they present points extending past each other and affording bearings against which a suitable tool may -be applied with a turning or pushing motion to spread them apart.

In the accompanying drawings, Figure 1 represents a perspective view of my key as it appears when closed; Fig. 2, a perspective View of the same when opened; Fig. 3, a perspective view illustrating the manner in which the tool may be applied to effect the opening or spreading of the key when it is in position for use. Fig. 4 illustrates the manner of shearing the blanks.

A represents the body of the key, which is commonly construct-ed by doubling metal of a semicircular or similar section upon itself and bringing the two ends closely together in a manner familiar to every mechanic. Ordinarily the two ends are cut at a right angle to the length of the key.

In manufacturing my improved key I bevel the ends,- as shown at a I), in opposite directions, so that they present two points separated from each other in such manner that when the key is in position a blade or tool inserted between the points with a turning orlateral pushing motion, as indicated in Fig. 3, will effect theirseparation. The projection of the bevelpoints is effected by shearing the rod or blank obliquely previous to its being bent into form. In Fig. 4 I have represented this manner of forming the blanks.

WVhile my invention is designed more particularly for keys ofthe form shown, itis manifest that it may be applied to all split keys of various form regardless of their sectional form.

Having thus described my invention, what I claim is 1. A cotter-key having its two ends beveled in opposite directions, whereby the point of one end will overlap the bevel of the other end, as described and shown.

2. A divided key the ends of which present, when closed together, projecting points extending past each other to permit the in sertion ot' a spreadingtool between them.

In testimony whereof I hereunto set my hand, this 8th day of June, 1886, in the presence of two attesting witnesses.

\VILLIAM P. BROWN.

\Vitnesses: V

ROBERT H. MoF-ARLAND, G. W. FENSTEMAKER. 

